Sandra‘s Closet

The Met Gala is typically held on the first Monday in May, but this year, the event was postponed due to COVID-19 and falls right in the middle of fashion month. As Iris Apfel once said: «When we were small children, we all played dress-up and everybody had a good time, so why stop?». This is how Met Gala is for me, a huge party for everyone who loves to dress up and has never stop to indulge in fashion.

Ensemble, Christopher John Rogers (American, born 1993), F/W 2020; Courtesy Christopher John Rogers. Photo: HAPPYMONDAY / Courtesy of the Costume Institute

Also referred to as «fashion’s biggest night out,» the Met Gala is a fundraising benefit for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This year, the Costume Institute will host its first two-part exhibition, on the theme of American fashion, during 2021 and 2022. Part one, «In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,» will open in the Anna Wintour Costume Center on September 18, 2021, and will remain on display when «In America: An Anthology of Fashion,» opens on May 5, 2022 in the period rooms of the American Wing. Both shows will run through September 5, 2022.

Below, you will find my personal selection of outfits, that I loved or didn’t like and hope you will enjoy it.

LoL, Sandra

Fashion that makes us dream – my favorite look of the gala: Iman in Harris Reed

Cracking the codes: Kim Kardashian in Balenciaga

Rihanna in Balenciaga Couture and Maria Tash jewelry and A$AP Rocky in ERL

Wild West: Jennifer Lopez in Ralph Lauren

Fitting the American theme of the upcoming exhibitions perfectly: Helen Lasichanh and Pharrell Williams in CHANEL

Sporting the American flag: Debbie Harry in and with Zac Posen

Trio infernal with an American «Statue of Liberty» touch: Sienna Miller in Gucci, Hamish Bowles in Thom Browne, and Emily Blunt in Miu Miu

Feathers were also a trending theme: Serena Williams in Gucci

One of my favorites last night: Zoë Kravitz in Saint Laurent

And another one of my favorite looks: Kendall Jenner in Givenchy

Julia Garner in Stella McCartney

Hailee Steinfeld in Iris Van Herpen

Donatella Versace in Versace

Whoopi Goldberg, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Carey Mulligan in Valentino

Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello in Michael Kors Collection

Literally eye-catching: Hunter Schafer in Prada

Gigi Hadid in Prada

A great look, but somehow not for her: Diane Kruger in Prabal Gurung and Jimmy Choo shoes

Beautiful: Emily Ratajkowski in Vera Wang

Mmh… definitely not my favorite look: Vera Wang in Vera Wang

Playing dress-up: Erykah Badu in Thom Browne

Making a statement: Cara Delevingne in Christian Dior

Flowers were a huge theme: Lili Reinhart in Christian Siriano

LOVE: Irina Shayk in Moschino

YouTuber Nikkie Tutorials (Nikkie de Jager), who came out as transgender last year, paid homage to activist and drag queen Marsha P. Johnson with this «pay it no mind» sash.

Anna Wintour wore a floral Oscar de la Renta gown.

Stunning in Oscar de la Renta: Karlie Kloss and designer Wes Gordon

Billie Eilish in Oscar de la Renta. Her bombshell gown symbolizes her activism for animal rights. According to The New York Times, she agreed to work with Oscar de la Renta on the condition that the designers would no longer use fur in their pieces.

Dan Levy in Loewe

Designer Virgil Abloh in Off-White

And here comes the golden king in his amazing outfit that revealed different layers: Lil Nas X in Versace

Photos: via Vogue.com

Founded in the city of Reggio Emilia in 1951, Max Mara represents the «epitome of Italian quality and craftsmanship.» The brand is adored for its coats and modern, sophisticated approach to wardrobe classics that transcend seasons and trends. Beautiful fabrics define each collection.

My personal hero piece: Teddy Bear Icon camel hair and silk-blend coat by Max Mara

An ode to extravagance in both form and fabric, the Teddy Bear coat shot to icon status on its debut in 2013. An «It Coat» from conception, the cocoon-like oversized cut and plush faux fur of camel hair on silk make it a must-have for women worldwide; Heidi Klum, Karlie Kloss and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley a among them.

Julia Roberts’ favorite: Teddy Bear Icon Short alpaca, wool and silk-blend coat by Max Mara

Teddy Bear Icon wool, alpaca and silk-blend coat by Max Mara

Teddy coats can be seen everywhere, but I do love an original. The Max Mara teddy coat is a true classic, an iconic investment piece. Try it on and you will be instantly transported back to your bed. They are the coolest, coziest and warmest outerwear you can dream of. You won’t want to take them off and let’s face it, they look so damn good you don’t even need to worry about what’s underneath them.

LoL, Sandra

On the F/W 2020 runway: Teddy Bear Icon hooded alpaca and wool-blend coat by Max Mara

Photos: Courtesy of Max Mara
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Personally speaking, I had never been a fan of detoxing. Until now. After one week at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth, my view has changed. And so has my life. It is not only a cure, it is a lifestyle. Sounds too dramatic? Only the truth but please see for yourself what happened in this one week in Austria.

When I booked my trip, I didn’t really pay attention to the location. Maria Wörth belongs to the Austrian state of Carinthia. The centre of the resort town is situated on a peninsula at the southern shore of the Wörthersee, where the detox resort is also located. It is just above the Slovenian border. There are many options to get to VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth from Zurich, by train (too many changes of trains), by plane (you can land in Klagenfurt for example and will be picked up from the airport) and by car. I chose the latter, almost 700 km, the route takes you via Munich, Salzburg to Maria Wörth. As the longest part of the trip is on the German autobahn, and as I drive a Porsche 911, I made it in 6.5 hours with one stop on the way at Burger King (not recommendable to eat this kind of food before detoxing, you will understand later why) to VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth.

Finding inner peace at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth

My goal was: «Take a break from my daily routine. Reduce my stress. Relax and unwind. Feel healthier.» That was exactly what I was looking for. But I had a second reason to go to VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth and that was my dear travel companion, my 17 year-old daughter Anouk. Being stressed with college applications, exams and the typical teenage problems, I observed her graving for unhealthy food, snacks and soft drinks. My maternal advice was unheard and made it even worse. I was convinced if she felt the change nutrition can have on the body and mind herself, she would become more aware of it and enjoy greater balance and health afterwards. And my plan worked out…

My room at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth and the view from my balcony.

On a Sunday morning in October 2019 during fall break, we drove all the way to VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth. Anouk was skeptical, totally scared she would be starving to death the next week. When we arrived, I was kind of unsure as well. From the outside, it looked more like a private hospital in concrete past the prime of its life than a five star hotel. Inside, it was quiet and we were greeted warm-heartedly by a lovely receptionist who handed us two glass bottles for water that we could carry around during the day. The style itself is quite Scandinavian, white tiles as well as light wood floors combined with natural fabrics in muted colors. Our room was spacious with a beautiful view on the lake.

The world’s most glamorous have been sneaking off to  VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth for dramatic health makeovers. While I was there, Chase Crawford had checked in.

I had read about VIVAMAYR before, supposedly the hottest health and weight loss destination in Europe. Let’s be frank, the world’s most glamorous have been there. Liz Hurley just left and Alber Elbaz, former Creative Director of Lanvin, is coming here yearly for a health makeover. While we were there, Gossip Girl star Chase Crawford had checked in together with German supermodel Anna Ewers. They had the table close to us in the dining room. Let’s be frank, if such a glam couple comes for their first trip together to VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth, it must be cool. At this point, my daughter was on board.

Karlie Kloss photographed by Mario Testing for Vogue UK at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth

VOGUE UK came all the way to Austria to shoot an amazing editorial with Karlie Kloss and Mario Testino at the famous detox resort. And then there is this fabulous book «The Viva Mayr Diet» by Dr. Harald Stossier, who directs the prestigious VIVAMAYR Medical Centre, and Helena Frith Powell, former serial dieter and author of «Two Lipsticks and a Lover», that promises 14 days to a flatter stomach and a younger you, even while having a glass of wine. Do I have your attention now?

Let me get you started with a sneak preview of facts every girl should know:
• Agonising over water or wine at dinner? Make it wine every time!
• Stop eating on the move! Eating when you’re all stressed out is your no.1 enemy.
• Eat a cheese burger really slowly and it’ll be better for you than wolfing down an all-organic fancy salad.
• Never, ever skip breakfast! If you’re really that busy, drop dinner from your day instead.

Changing your lifestyle at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth…

After one week already at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth, my stomach that tends to be my week point felt amazingly well, no cramps or tensions, and my skin was absolutely glowing. I felt so good I have decided to incorporate certain things in my nutritional plan and make it my way of life. Let’s face it girls, you are what you eat. But what does the magic at VIVAMAYR?

Serhan Güven, Managing Director VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth, told me about the plans to renovate and built a new clinic next door that will focus on mental issues such as burn-out syndrome or depressions. Funny… I look like the doctor in my bathrobe.

Medical treatments developed by Dr. F.X. Mayr assume we can «become healthy, happy, and more efficient» by temporarily changing our normal diet. Regular (lifelong) fasting leads to greater health by observing specific dietary guidelines and changing eating habits. Every patient at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth is seen each day by a doctor. I had been assigned to Dr. Werner Zancolo, who explained me that the VIVAMAYR Principle was developed on the basis of modern Mayr medicine, based on the four principles of Rest, Cleanse, Train and Substitute with the goal of integrating and practicing each principle individually for a period of time. The reason why it is so successful and worked perfectly for me is that the dietary guidelines are combined with modern complementary procedures including Functional Myodiagnostics (A.K.) and Orthomolecular Medicine. Tuning into your health and well-being is a memorable experience of self-discovery. «Bring your health back to life» – this is the catchy slogan which is exactly what you are doing at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth.

Dr. Werner Zancolo performing a tummy massage followed by an Applied Kinesiology test, after which he determined that I was fructose-intolerant.

Once the great team of doctors have treated your condition, proper nutrition combined with exercise and improved mental awareness become the building blocks of your new life.

We arrived on a Sunday late afternoon and our first meal was dinner that is served between 6-7 pm. Everything at VIVAMAYR follows a strict schedule. You are asked to go to bed early pushing the button next to your night table to cut off all electricity that is said to lead to better sleep. In the beginning, it feels more like being in a health jail, than a detox deluxe.

The dining room where you have all your meals at VIVAMAYR Maria Woerth.

In the dining room, the so-called patients eat in silence, mainly dressed in white terry-cloth robes and matching slippers. A sign on each table showing a cell phone, an iPad and a computer, all with a thick red line through them, banned any form of technology or communication with the outside world. The focus should be on the act of chewing as this is an important part of the digestion. Therefore you always get a stale spelt bread. Mayr believed the staler the bread, the more you chew it, therefore the better it is for you. Who would have thought that masticating 40 times before swallowing could be so difficult? But there is method to this madness. Chewing slowly and intensively promotes the production of an enzyme called amylase which helps your gut digest your food more easily. Eat in peace and with pleasure, chew extensively in order to salivate the food well, and avoid raw food in the evening.

All day you can prepare yourself yummy herbal teas.

Very important at VIVAMAYR is that you keep cold liquids separate from mealtimes. You’re asked not to drink for half an hour before and after mealtimes. Something that you should be always doing in order not to dilute the digestive juices. The biggest meals are breakfast and lunch, dinner should be light and small. Something I cannot integrate in my lifestyle as supper is my biggest meal of the day for me also in terms of social aspects.

The food served is very satisfying, even that the portions are not so big. The intense chewing helps.

The nutrition plan is based on the principle of maintaining a healthy acid–alkaline balance. For the optimal flow of all metabolic processes, a balanced ratio of acids and bases is important. It is also reasonable to ensure that the food is balanced when it comes to eating: less meat, fish, cheese, white bread, pasta, rice and sugar, but more vegetables, potatoes, mature local fruit and cold-pressed vegetable oils.

No need to suffer…

The transition phase at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth was extremely tough on me, less on my daughter. The deprivation of caffeine, alcohol and sugar lead to severe headaches. Something that the lovely team at the detox resort is familiar with. You can feel that your body is rebooting which also takes a lot of strength, makes you feel shaky, weak and extremely tired. All the energy goes to your gut that is the center of your health. If your digestive system works well, everything is in the flow. Patients start their morning in general at VIVAMAYR with instructions to drink a large dose of vile, bitter-tasting Epsom salts, which induces a significant bathroom visit. My daughter and I were prescribed the lighter version, magnesium citrate  to help cleanse our guts.

Fighting my back pain with the help of the Detensor spine traction decompression therapy device.

Be prepared that the way to a glowing complexion means being sallow-skinned, with enormous dark-purple circles under your eyes, and some break-outs at your chin. On the third day, I even had to have an IV with pain killers because also my lumbago all of a sudden became severe. Then your transformation begins, all of a sudden, as the week passed, the detox program became more pleasurable. Instead of pining to go home, I wanted to stay and feel even better. My energy levels rose, cellulite, which is a phenomenon of overacidification, my dear ladies, disappeared completely, my skin was glowing and I was in a great mood. Of course I was hooked and wanted to make the VIVAMAYR diet a way of life. And so was my daughter. Her teenage skin problems had diminished only in a few days, she felt less tired and less bloated.

One of my favorite treatments was the oxygen therapy where you «climb» the Mount Everest 5 times in 30 minutes in terms of the oxygen levels. While you do this, you build more blood cells and get more energized.

Be prepared that you will have extra costs due to additional treatments that I highly recommend, I loved the massages, detox foot bath, oxygen treatment and more… The more distraction you have, the easier it is to transition into your new lifestyle.

If you want to make a permanent dent into those belly rings or wobbly knees you’ve got to look a bit further into the future. The difference is that after you understood the concept you’ll be hooked, will have less pitfalls and it will feel normal to follow this regime as it is reaching for your lipstick.

Exercising is as important as your changing your nutrition.

Key facts that I have incorporated in my daily routine and that help me not to be bloated anymore:
• I stopped drinking Coke Zero at all. As your body tries to maintain the acid-alkaline balance, diet pop leaches the calcium out of bones, which can lead to osteoporosis. If you are toxic, you are consuming your own minerals.
• I take the VIVAMAYR alkaline powder on a daily basis which helps to reduce the overacidification of the body that we all most likely have.
• Instead of starting my day with three cappuccinos, I have two matcha teas. The reason for it is very obvious. In the morning our energy levels are high already, when we push them to extreme with caffeine, it has contra-productive effects. Saving the cup of coffee for the time when you are feeling drowsy after lunch, is much better for your health.
• I eliminated raw vegan regimes in the evening, salads only at lunch. The cold raw food is tough on the digestion. I feel so much better since then.
• A big step for me was changing my beloved Kinder chocolate bar in the morning for a healthy breakfast. I mostly eat porridge or fruits with yoghurt and walnuts.

My daughter has absolutely changed her eating habits, makes now healthier nutritional choices and exercises more. I couldn’t have wished for a better outcome.

So close from VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth: Lake Bled is one of the most picturesque spots to visit in Slovenia.

For those who get bored easily, there are plenty of options to do sportive activities or excursions, from Vienna to Klagenfurt, Lake Bled or Ljubljana. You can book them directly with the hotel. My daughter and I for example went one day to Slovenia that is only an hour away by car. VIVAMAYR packed us our lunch so that we didn’t mess up our strict diet. We had such a great time in Austria and will be back for sure this fall. Below you can find some more treatments that you shouldn’t miss…

I always made fun of my girlfriends who attend like pilgrims their respective cure at least once a year. Not anymore. I am a VIVAMAYRista now, too!

LoL, Sandra

So interesting: the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a commonly used method for estimating body composition, in particular body fat and muscle mass.

Don’t miss a bath in the Hydroxeur – this hydromassage bathtub with chromotherapy lamps is very relaxing.

Several treatments are designed to support the detoxifying process in your body, such as the full body mud wrap or the electrolysis footbath.

My highlight: a QMS Oxygen Facial that was sensational.

Don’t miss these four previous outfit posts, all shot at VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth:
Vivamayr – You Can Do It – Chill & Relax – Golden Fall

Photos in cover collage and of Karlie Kloss: Courtesy of VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth and © Vogue UK / Mario Testino, all other photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Hailed as one of fashion’s rebels, Jeremy Scott creates decadent high fashion from American cultural obsessions. With a fanatical following of pop music’s biggest icons, the irreverent designer provokes and pushes into fashion’s outer limits. Scott’s collection for M·A·C introduces manic colour for eyes, lips and cheeks specially packaged in cheeky tribute to the days of mixtapes, boomboxes, new music and unhinged creative expression taking root on city streets.

What is your relationship with M·A·C and how did you choose M·A·C to partner with?
M·A·C has been my partner for creating the looks for my shows for so many years. They’ve been a wonderful partner whose support has helped me to create my own vision in so many different endeavors. M·A·C has not only supported my designs from a cosmetic perspective, but they’ve helped to bring my documentary to life, and their philanthropic efforts separate them from any other brand. M·A·C is really the makeup that’s used by professionals and comes from the origins of high fashion – the purest connection to fashion of any other makeup company. M·A·C is the real deal.

What is the inspiration behind your M·A·C collaboration?
Music is a constant in my life. When I’m prepping for my show or dressing a pop star for her tour, I put music on and we use it as a muse to bring these different images and visions to life. I thought I could take this idea of taking a makeup palette and turning it into a boom box, cassette, and CD and it would pay homage to music which I find so important. We created these pieces with the outer packaging box just like it. It doesn’t look like a makeup packaging box and,I think that’s the purist expression of my creativity right now. So much of my outlook on fashion and beauty is about what I do, the humor I have and the way I see things and how I alter them and blur these lines. I can’t wait to share this collection with the world.

Model Jasmine Sanders backstage at Jeremy Scott’s S/S 2018 show

What does makeup mean to you and how does it affect fashion?
Makeup is such a big tool for creating and fulfilling my life’s work. Models walking down the runway is a silent film showcasing my designs. Makeup captures the mood that I’m trying to express and helps me with the message. It’s a great way to change your mood. Putting on a bright lipstick or a bold smoky eye can impact a look so drastically. Pairing a statement makeup look can turn simple jeans and a T-shirt into a totally different look. There are many men around me that inspire me and many women that inspire me to see different things in my designs. It’s really important to let people interpret my work in their own way.
I put it out there as a proposal with my own inspirations behind it. It’s for everybody else to take and process it for it to become theirs. I love that different people can perceive my designs in different ways. For both beauty and fashion, I would encourage everyone to follow your own instinct. If you feel beautiful using a certain lipstick or colour or texture, that’s where you’re going to experience the triumph of the individual. Confidence is true beauty.

What defines beauty to you?
There is so much versatility in makeup. During a certain period of time it creates a different expression or emotion and goes even beyond what apparel can achieve. As a designer, I tell my story through my fashion shows. The models are silent, so we use the lighting, the makeup and the music of the soundtrack to bring it to life in the moment. It’s the moment I’m trying to capture for the viewers and want them to stay in it for as long as possible.
I really hope that this collection with M·A·C invites new customers to both M·A·C and Jeremy Scott. There are so many more people that we have to touch and think people can find themselves through the excitement and a part of the world that I created with M·A·C.

Karlie Kloss on the Jeremy Scott S/S 2018 runway

What do you predict will be the main trends of 2018?
Honestly, when I look at makeup I think of it as something that is so individual. It is really time for the person wearing it to be themselves. There are endless styles, tastes and opinionsthat you can tune into. This collection with M·A·C, undoubtedly has opened more people to be a part of my fashion world and to experience this expression. Fashion and beauty to me is so much more exciting than an “inor an out list.” People should follow their instincts, bold, fun, or personal.

What are some of your fashion tips for the everyday and for the runway?
I think fashion is so amazing because it’s so individual. Everyone has different body parts that they want to be shown or love to see. Fashion is about dressing for the things you find beautiful in a way you feel confident. Even when I’m doing a show, I’m constantly trying to find the right outfit for the model to convey and characterize the look. All of these beautiful women and personalities, it’s so fun to match them to particular pieces. It can really create a moment that is so individual just by the way that she carries the clothes and how it speaks to their reality.

Gigi Hadid on the Jeremy Scott S/S 2018 runway

Please describe the Jeremy Scott woman!
The Jeremy Scott woman is always musically involved. She’s the one that’s on stage at the concert, or she could be backstage. She could be the lead singer or a fan with the enthusiasm of a girl going to her first concert. Music is a constant inwho the Jeremy Scott girl is.

What is one motto that you choose to live by?
I guess it’s really to never wait for yourself. There was a time period when I was first starting out and I would tell myself things like “that’s for later when you have more success.” I would think that I needed to give it more time or that I wasn’t just ready for it yet. I recently came to realize that everyone needs to live their life in all of its capacities and not wait for your ideas. I constantly remind myself of that. It’s the right time to stretch out of your comfort zone and embrace the fear that comes with the unknown.

What is your favourite item in your collection with M·A·C?
If I really have to pick, I would choose the boombox which is my M·A·C Jeremy Scott Lo-Fi / Eye Shadow x 29. It’s so strong and bold withall of the different colours. It really makes a statement. It truly suits all of the different beauties who love and wear my clothes. Everyone’s skin colour is different and everyone’s personality is so unique. I wanted my products to represent many different moments and didn’t want to leave any of my beauties out. I wanted this collection to offer out diversity and versatility and what we created allows me to put my arms around so many people.

FUTURE EMOTION / LIP X 9
LIVING IN STERE: WARM NUDE (MATTE)
VIOLETTA: BRIGHT COOL PURPLE (AMPLIFIED)
WILD MEMORIES: WARM INTENSE RED (MATTE)
BREATHING FIRE: BRIGHT WARM PINK (MATTE)
NIGHT CLUB SCHOOL: DEEP WINE (AMPLIFIED)
CARMINE ROUGE: COOL DEEP RED (MATTE)
DIGGING IT: DEEP DUSTY BROWN (MATTE)
MORANGE: LOUDMOUTH ORANGE (AMPLIFIED)
HAPPY SONG: MID-TONE ROSY PINK (MATTE)
CHF 49.00 

ACOUSTICA / CHEEK X 3
HEAVEN IN YOUR SMILE IRIDESCENT POWDER: PALE FROSTY HIGHLIGHT (FROST)
ACOUSTICA BRONZING POWDER: WARM BROWN (MATTE)
WALL OF DESIRE POWDER BLUSH: MID-TONE PINK (SATIN)
CHF 49.00 

LO-FI / EYE SHADOW X 29
LO-FI: SOFT BEIGE WITH GOLD SHIMMER (SATIN)
CREATIVE COPPER: PEACHY GOLD WITH SHIMMER (LUSTRE)
BITE THE BEAT: MID-TONE WARM BROWN (MATTE)
ENDLESS FREQUENCY: MID-TONE PEACH (MATTE)
DISCO THERAPY: BRIGHT MUTED ORANGE (MATTE)
SUPERIOR SOUND: SOFT CREAMY PINK (FROST)
HAPPY SONG: BUBBLEGUM PINK (SATIN)
BIRD’S EYE VIEW: BRIGHT FUCHSIA PINK (SATIN)
WALKING HEARTBEATS: MID-TONE RED (MATTE)
VACATION SPEED ZONE: DEEP PLUM WITH RED PEARL (VLXP)
GHOST STORY: CREAMY WHITE WITH ICY SHIMMER (FROST)
MORNING TICKET: SILVER METALLIC FROST (VLXP)
US DANCE REMIX: FROSTY COOL GUNMETAL (VLXP)
SUBTLY ELEGANT: MUTED PALE GREY (MATTE)
BONUS TRACK: WARM BROWN WITH SILVER SPARKLE (FROST)
BEAUTIFULLY CHARRED: MID-TONE BROWN WITH GOLD SHIMMER (FROST)
RAVEN EYED: TRUE BLACK (MATTE)
VIDEO EMOTIONS: BLACK PURPLE (MATTE)
MEMORIES OF SPACE: BRIGHT TRUE YELLOW (MATTE)
REMIXOLOGY: MUTED LIME GREEN (MATTE)
BEATALLICA: DEEP FOREST GREEN (MATTE)
SYNTHESEYES: PALE MINT GREEN (SATIN)
OLDIE BUT GOODIE: LIGHT SEA FOAM (MATTE)
POWERFUL PERFORMANCE: AQUAMARINE BLUE (SATIN)
AT THE TURNTABLE: SKY BLUE (MATTE)
ELECTRIC EEL: BRIGHT BLUE WITH SHIMMER (FROST)
SHE’S A MACHINE: LAVENDER WITH SHIMMER (FROST)
JAM SESSION: BRIGHT LILAC (SATIN)
NEW WAVE MIX: BRIGHT VIOLET PURPLE (MATTE)
CHF 148.00

Exclusively available at selected M·A·C Manor Counters and M·A·C Store Lucerne & Zurich and at www.maccosmetics.ch from today!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics
#MACJeremyScott

For the first time in 17 years, Donatella Versace and Bruce Weber reunite for the Italian House’s F/W 2016 ad campaign. The photographer responsible for some of Versace’s most iconic images returns to the famed fashion brand for the first time since 1999. Starring Gigi Hadid, Karlie Kloss and Dilone in a series of tableaux, some real-life and some fantastical, the images were shot in Chicago and, in classic Weber style, womenswear and menswear are shown together. The large cast of men features real-world discoveries such as a bodyguard, a singer and dancers, as well as models Trevor Signorino, Charlie Kennedy and Marcus Watts.

Bruce Weber said, “When I first spoke with Donatella about going to Chicago she said, simply, – yes, let’s pack up and go! – Donatella has always been an adventurer and not only does she treat me like a prince, she treats me like family – and the feeling is mutual. The most important thing to me, after all these year, is that we can still laugh together”.

I used to live in Chicago and love this city, what a great choice.
TO SHOP VERSACE ONLINE, CLICK HERE PLEASE.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Versace

What a night in NYC! I am still overwhelmed by this glam and fun event where the fashion and Hollywood elite joined forces on Wall Street to celebrate the launch of the amazing collaboration between Balmain and H&M. More is more is definitely something that goes for the Parisian Maison and yesterday was proof for it!

”Tonight has been a dream come true for me. The energy and vibe are unbelievable.” – Olivier Rousteing

Olivier Rousteing with me last night

Just like the opulent collection designed by Creative Director Olivier Rousteing, the party in the Big Apple was extra everything. Rousteing, who is bringing the brand’s DNA of music, couture, luxury and pop culture – he is the designer with the biggest instagram follower ship – together, said: ”Tonight has been a dream come true for me. The energy and vibe are unbelievable.” He created the hashtag #HMBalmaination where people could follow live the best moments of the night.

When I arrived at 23, Wall Street, I entered the highly secured venue over the stairs and found an ambiance similar to a subway system, referencing the campaign film – where Kendall Jenner, Olivier’s muse and friend, stars as the leader of a dance crew. While enjoying champagne, I mingled with the A-list crowd of top models, celebrities and Hollywood actors.

Singer Ellie Goulding with me

After the cocktail reception, I entered the next hall where the runway was built over two stories. Before the show actually started, a live dance performance took place as well as an exclusive sneak peek of the campaign music video. The guests were truly cheered up when Kendall Jenner opened the  catwalk, followed by some of the hottest models in the industry right now.

Swiss front row power: Kerstin Netsch, Editor in Chief Friday Magazine and Caroline Piccinin, Le Matin with me in the middle.

Kendall Jenner opening the runway

Jourdan Dunn

Alessandra Ambrosio wearing Olivier Rousteing’s favorite piece from the collection: the pearl-embroidered jacket.

Gigi Hadid

Karlie Kloss was my favorite on the runway.

Toni Garrn

The collection is all about affordable luxury. Olivier Rousteing took some of his best creations he designed over the past seasons and made them into one collection. Compared to other designer collaborations H&M did in previous years, the pieces are more expensive but I am still pretty amazed how this craftsmanship is possible for that amount of money. The collection is truly beautiful with lots of items you can enjoy for a very long time.

The Backstreet Boys

After the show, it was all about the music and energy. A live concert by the Backstreet Boys took guests back in time, especially my humble self as over 20 years ago, I was with them on a Germany tour with my own band. Personally speaking, the Balmain x H&M launch party was one of those nights you never want to end!

Olivier Rousteing and his friends, among them Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid and Alessandra Ambrosio, cheered to the Backstreet Boys.

The Balmain x H&M collection features fashion and accessories for both men and women, and will be available in selected stores and at hm.com starting November 5.

Now have fun to scroll through some more impressions of the night and check back in for more updates as I just uploaded my own photos today. The internet is too slow… there is much more coming up. Now I have some appointments in NYC before I am heading back home!
Talk to you when I am in Europe…

LoL, Sandra

René Zibold, PR and Communication Manager at H&M Switzerland (@monsieurené), is looking good in my marabou stole.

Guests being crazy about the red carpet arrivals.

German actress Diane Kruger

Amazing ambiance.

We couldn’t get enough of the Backstreet Boys!

Always a lot of fun with my colleague Caroline Piccinin from Le Matin in Geneva.

The normal craziness at the pop-up store late at night.

The clothes come well-protected in plastic hangers.

Olivier Rousteing even joined in the shopping fun late at night.

All Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht

Great news, my dear Swiss readers! This week, the annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich kick off on Wednesday evening with their big opening night and you have the chance to win two tickets. But you have to be fast!

To participate, please send me an e-mail with your postal address and the header “Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich” to . All entries must be received until today November 10, 2014 at 6pm CET. No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to enter or win this contest. By entering this contest, entrants accept and agree to be bound by these official rules. The winner has to have a Swiss address.

At work front row during last year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich

Let me tell you a little more what you can expect during the night at Schiffbau Zurich and also during the next days in general. There will be a lot of highlights taking place at Switzerland´s biggest fashion event from November 12-15, 2014. First of all, Max Mara is the headlining designer of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich which will celebrate their  fifth anniversary this year. The well-known Italian luxury-brand whose signature-look consists of timeless coats and jackets, was founded in 1951 by Mr Achille Maramotti and the label is still a family-run company that seeks to design elegant long-term fashion. With more than 2300 stores in 105 countries, Max Mara has become one of the largest international fashion houses.

A stunning red carpet look during the MBFDZ 2013 by Good & Vitalini St. Moritz

Furthermore, red carpet favourite, Bibhu Mohapatra will showcase his S/S 2015 collection at the Mercedes-Benz Opening Night. After working for more than a decade as design director for J. Mendel, the New York based Indo-American designer founded his own label in 2008. Today the brand is sold in prestigious stores, such as Bergdorf Goodman and dresses influential women like Michelle Obama, Glenn Close and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Below please find the event overview of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich below. I attached some photos of last year’s events for you to get an idea of what will be going on. It is your chance to indulge in fashion and experience first class designers, models and shopping first hand. I highlighted the best events for you!

Front row next to Karlie Kloss last year.

PUBLIC EVENTS:

LATE FASHION SHOPPING NIGHT ZURICH
By cool shopping map, annabelle & Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich
· Aziza Zina, St. Peterhofstatt 8
· Deecee Style, Talacker 21
· H&M, Bahnhofstrasse 92
· BOSS Store Zürich, Bahnhofstrasse 39
· IRO, Strehlgasse 5
· Little Black Dress, Rämistrasse 7 & Josefstrasse 45
· N2, Brotgasse 3
· Onitsuka Tiger, Sihlstrasse 17
· Trois Pommes, Bahnhofstrasse 12
· Van Bery, Torgasse 6
· Vestibule, St. Peterstrasse 20
Tuesday, November 11 (7:00PM – 10.00PM)
Late Fashion Shopping Night Drinks (10:00 PM) @ Onyx Bar, Park Hyatt Zurich, Beethoven-Strasse 21

MEET & SHOP THE DESIGNERS @ TEMPORÄR, FASHIONSLAVE Wednesday, November 12 (4:00PM)

SAMSUNG LIVE ACT Thursday, November 13 (7.45pm) @ VIP TENT
Creating a bespoke Samsung Galaxy Tab S by Sandra Bauknecht (Style Icon, Editor in Chief 
L’Officiel Switzerland and Blogger www.sandrascloset.com).
Great news is that my dear readers will be able to win this Samsung Galaxy Tab S designed by me after the FDZ here on my blog. Stay tuned for the contest coming up next week!

AFTER PARTY @ CLUB BELLEVUE Thursday, November 13 (11:30PM)

Aziza Zina’s finale last year

MODE TRIFFT DESIGN @ HGC SHOWROOM Aziza Zina exhibition at HGC Showroom, Hardturmstrasse 101 Friday, November 14 (4:00PM)

AFTER PARTY @ PLAZA CLUB Friday, November 14 (11:30PM)

With Carmen Cita Jones at last year’s opening night.

SWISS DESIGNERS SALE by Montagsmarkt @ SCHIFFBAU FOYER
Berenik, Kazu, Pelikamo, Laend Phuengkit, RS Hader, Javier Reyes, Stefanie Biggel, Aziza Zina, LBD – Little Black Dress, Van Bery, studiowinkler, Julian Zigerli, Alsamendi, Carmen Cita Jones Jewellery, Griesbach, Kinsfolk, Pamb, Yana Rey, Yoshiki und Viu. Saturday, November 15 (12:00PM – 9:00PM)

With Italian designer duo Frankie Morello

POP-UP SALE @ TROIS POMMES THE STORE Notte Italiana Pop-Up Sale (9.30AM – 6PM)
My tip: A MUST GO!!!

SCHIFFBAU FOYER Pre & after show drinks November 12-15

Karlie Kloss taking pictures of the Cushnie et Ochs collection

Designer duo Cushnie et Ochs with Karlie Kloss and me

BY INVITATION ONLY EVENTS:

H&M STUDIO SS15 @ CLOUDS Exclusive event for invited guests only Wednesday, November 12 (2:00PM – 4:00PM)

DISNEY FASHION OPEN HOUSE @ CLOUDS Exclusive launch of the latest Disney, Marvel and Star Wars products, for invited guests only Friday, November 14 (10:00AM – 4:00PM)

MBFDS TALKS@ VIP TENT presented by Mercedes-Benz & The League of Leading Ladies
Talking the latest fashion trends of 2015, for invited guests only
Normcore with blogger Sandra Bauknecht and trend researcher Joan Billing Friday, November 14 (12:00PM – 2:00PM)

H&M CLOSING PARTY @ ESCHERWYSS CLUB Exclusive party for invited guests only Saturday, November 15 (10:30PM)

Follow me live on instagram @sandrascloset during the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Days Zurich.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: @ Sandra Bauknecht, © Andrea Monica Hug (Chic in Zurich), David Biedert Photography, © Fashiongamble Joy, © Getty Images, Style.com and Courtesy of the MBFDZ

Ladies and Gentlemen, don’t forget that this week on the 6th of November the Alexander Wang x H&M collection will hit the stores. To get you in the shopping mood, I would love to show you all the impressions of the amazing launch event that took place at the Armory on the Hudson, an indoor track and field stadium in New York City Mid October. When H&M celebrates a designer collaboration, it means that VIP’s from the worlds of entertainment, fashion, and Hollywood, follow the invitation with pleasure. This year, I spotted for example Jessica Chastain, Dakota Fanning, Justin Theroux, Mary J Blige, Kate Mara and many more.

H&M approached Wang a year and a half ago, and the designer immediately knew he wanted to take things in a different direction than anything they’d tried in the past. “They’ve done such an incredible job with the previous projects, everything from Versace and the archival Margiela,” he said. “But the approach had to be different for this one, both for me and for H&M.”

Alexander Wang is the first American to partner with the company whose designer collaboration program is in its tenth year. He mixed sports and performance for everyday life by capturing the speed of the city. Using technical details and functional fabrics, Wang created the perfect versatile performance wear wardrobe for both, men and women, a collection to be worn on the street, in the gym, at the club – the way we live our lives today.

After a men’s and women’s full speed runway fashion show, the doors of a pop-up store opened where we could shop the collection first hand (click here to see what I got myself). The evening culminated when Sharaya came on stage as the opening act before the rare performance by Missy Elliott took place. She was so fantastic that even Alexander Wang, who had said earlier during the press conference that he doesn’t do sports, jumped on stage and danced crazily to her vibes. The party continued with music by DJ’s Diplo and Jesse Marco. It was again one of those magic nights with a gazillion of highlights that I will treasure forever.

Let me show you more impressions of that fantastic event:

Me arriving at the event location in a Moschino S/S 2015 look (the outfit post will come up tomorrow).

Dakota Fanning rushing to her seat.

The Armory on the Hudson from the inside.

Actor Justin Theroux…

… was extremely charming. Now, I understand Jennifer Aniston.

A redhead seldom comes alone: Jessica Chastain…

…and Eddie Redmayne.

Glamourous front row: Actors Dakota Fanning, Eddie Redmayne and Kate Mara.

An energetic acrobatic performance before the runway show…

… that captured the speed of the city.

Mary J Blige seemed to like it a lot.

A confetti rain was the perfect backdrop…

… for a happy Alexander Wang running around the catwalk.

Me taking the provided boxing gloves to get ready for the fight…

… in the pop-up store.

I was in the first slot. Therefore it still looks pretty quiet.

Even the supermodels went crazy for the collection, here you see Karlie Kloss.

Swiss girls: Barbara and Karo with me.

Before the runway show, I caught singer Sharaya…

… who was the opening act that night.

The highlight of the event was the performance of…

… Missy Elliott…

… who rocked the stage…

… that even Alexander Wang couldn’t stop dancing.

Party time…

… that the Swiss crowd didn’t need to be told twice. Being the only rooster in the yard, René Zibold, PR and Communication Manager for H&M Switzerland, surrounded by the Swiss girls (check out his travel tips for Paris here) going crazy.

Thanks H&M for taking me on this amazing adventure, to be continued next year…

LoL, Sandra

Photos: © Sandra Bauknecht and Courtesy of H&M, Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images for H&M

“I started with 16,000 Swiss francs, 20 years ago, and the success of de Grisogono is a miracle, in every sense” says Fawaz Gruosi. “I simply saw another way of doing things in the jewellery world. I was lucky, a little crazy, I worked like a madman and still do.“

You have to meet Fawaz Gruosi to understand his power over women, he might be the most charming man on earth. He knows what women want, especially when it comes to jewelry design. The president, owner and founder of de Grisogono likes to push the limits and break the rules to come up with the most amazing pieces.

Last week, de Grisogono celebrated the launch of its new Crazy Scull watch at Hotel Costes in Paris which shows the most outstanding artisan jewelry and horology. It took over one year of research to create this one of a kind timepiece.

Being entirely hand-set with white diamonds, pink sapphires, rubies and also the black diamonds, the stones the Geneva based jeweler is famous for, this dual time watch comes on a galuchat strap.

I am a huge fan of jewelry that offers a certain twist, that is provocative and different. How much fun are those baguette-cut diamond teeth and the ornate gemstone tongue?!

The Crazy Skull is available from around €500.000 depending on the stones you choose at de Grisogono boutiques.

And I couldn’t agree more with Karlie Kloss who said at last week’s party, it is “the most extravagant Halloween accessory” you have ever seen.
Speaking of which, happy trick or treating!

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of de Grisogono and © Sandra Bauknecht

“My Spring 2014 Collection celebrates a simple purity of clean lines and structure with a nod to the bold spirit and playfulness of swinging London in the late Sixties.” – Ralph Lauren

America’s grand seigneur of fashion added a wonderful modern and young twist to his S/S 2014 collection. I loved those knee socks and little Mary Janes in the beginning of the défilé. He showed a lot of black and white looks, very elegant and sophisticated as we know Ralph Lauren.

When colour appeared in the second half of the presentation on the runway, it was eye-catching bright. From cobalt blue to lime green and acid yellow, those hues looked extremely beautiful on the many gowns that walked down the runway. My favourite was Karlie Kloss‘s cobalt-blue strapless long dress in which she certainly made an entrance.

LoL, Sandra

Photos: Courtesy of Ralph Lauren Collection and © Sandra Bauknecht